Final answer:
Evidence-based practice (EBP), or Evidence-based Nursing (EBN), is the process of using current best evidence, clinical experience, and patient values to guide healthcare decisions. It's a systematic approach aimed at improving patient outcomes by integrating the best available research. Despite its benefits, the implementation of EBP can be challenging due to various barriers.
Step-by-step explanation:
Evidence-based practice (EBP), also known as Evidence-based Nursing (EBN), refers to the conscientious utilization of current best evidence in making decisions about patient care. It's a methodological approach that integrates clinical experience, patient values, and the best available research information. EBP is essential in the healthcare field because it aims to provide the most effective and efficient patient care, leading to improved patient outcomes.
EBP involves a systematic process of questioning clinical practices, systematically searching for and critically appraising relevant research, and applying the findings in practice while considering the patient's preferences and resources. This holistic approach ensures that patient care is based on the most credible and up-to-date information. Nurses and healthcare practitioners often use EBP to determine the best strategies for patient care, treatments, and interventions.
In the context of nursing, EBP is implemented to ensure quality and consistency in healthcare services. It supports a move away from traditional, anecdotal decision-making toward more scientific and evidence-driven practices. Despite its recognized importance, barriers such as a lack of resources, insufficient training, and resistance to change can hinder the full integration of EBP in nursing practice.